Swimsuit - it’s an innocent enough word: short, sweet, and slightly catchy, there’s really no reason to dislike it. But for many women, mention the S-word and it invokes feelings of stress, frustration and discomfort. While some women would take a root canal over swimsuit shopping, it doesn’t have to be that way.

Swimsuit season will be here before you know it, so it’s time to take the plunge. Tell your inner critical voice to take a hike (or at least a long walk on the beach), and work with your body instead of against it. Focus on finding a swimsuit that draws attention to your best assets and minimizes your trouble areas.

If you have a large chest, focus on finding a swimsuit with support. Look for underwire, built-in bras, and thick, adjustable straps to create definition and structure. If you’re still having trouble, try shopping a brand that offers bra-sized swimwear. Each style is built with chest-size in mind, and you’ll have more choices than just small, medium, and large.

The Goal: Slim and Flatter - Stomach

If you’re looking for a slimming swimsuit (let’s be honest – who isn’t?), avoid string and micro bikinis. Look for one-piece or tank-style swimsuits with a ruched, wrapped, or textured midsection and side panels that emphasize the smallest part of your waist. Bring sexy back to the one-piece by showing a little skin with a plunging or halter-style neckline.

The Goal: Minimize - Hips and Thighs

To draw unwanted attention away from hips and thighs, look for a suit with details above the waist: bright colours, three-dimensional embellishments, and playful prints all draw the eye to the upper half of the body. Below the waist, look for a skirted or folded bottom to instantly minimize love handles and hips.

Kendra Hagerman is a fashion writer, pug lover, and the Editor-in-Chief of VanCityPretty.com.